The race to land the signature of Orlando Pirates sensation Relebohile Mofokeng has intensified, with Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit FC Cincinnati now reported to have entered the fray.
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The latest update is according to Israeli publication Sport Walla, which also discussed how Maccabi Haifa have submitted an improved offer to Pirates worth around €1.5 million (approx R31 million) for the 20-year-old winger. The publication also notes a condition of retaining a 20% sell-on clause in the deal for Pirates.
The Israeli giants are eager to wrap up the transfer, but face stiff competition from domestic rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv, who have matched the financial terms of the proposal and are also pushing to convince both Pirates and Mofokeng to accept their offer.
The reports in Israel are contrary to what Pirates insiders told the Siya crew, where negotiations between the Maccabi clubs and Bucs were denied.
However, Mofokeng continues to be a talking point in Israeli sports media as there's a growing list of admirers which now reportedly includes FC Cincinnati. The American club has emerged as a serious contender to lure the South African international to the United States.
Their reported interest adds a new dimension to any future negotiations, especially considering the concerns around Israel’s ongoing security situation, which could impact the player’s final decision.
While Maccabi Tel Aviv may hold an advantage due to their qualification for the UEFA Champions League qualifiers, Mofokeng and his representatives are understood to be weighing all options carefully before committing to any move abroad.
The versatile attacker, who has lit up the PSL with his performances in the black and white of Orlando Pirates, remains one of the country’s most promising talents, and any transfer decision is likely to be made with both development and long-term ambition in mind.
As things stand, the competition to sign him is heating up, and all eyes will be on where the young starlet decides to take his next step.
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